Identification of a question or hypothesis

You should now understand the sand dunes have resulted from the interaction of different physical processes. These processes operate both on Saunton Sands and in Braunton Burrows.

You are now hopefully in a position to be able to pose suitable questions or hypotheses that can investigated in Braunton Burrows.

Study the map of Braunton Burrows.

Assess the effectiveness of the following investigation titles: 

1. How does sand dune succession work on Braunton Burrows?
2. How has Braunton Burrows changed over time?
3. What are the sand dunes like on Braunton Burrows?
4. How have human activities affected Braunton Burrows?
5. Microclimates on Braunton Burrows.

Most, but not all, investigations of sand dunes, focus on how different variables change with distance from the strandline.

For some of the following variables:

1. Set out a hypothesis which shows how you would expect change with distance inland from  the strandline.
2. Write a short paragraph to explain why you would expect the changes you identified. 

Sometimes, investigations set out to find if there is an association or relationship between pairs of variables. For example, an decrease in wind speed might lead to an increase in species diversity. Do you why might this might be?

Set out two hypotheses, which seek to investigate the relationship between pairs of variables. Remember to explain your ideas fully.

Now choose one of the hypotheses from your list. This will be the hypothesis you will investigate.